ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Barge Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Terral RiverService

BOAT PILOT

Channelview, TX · On-site

... barge * Directs and assists in performance of general maintenance work. * Ensuring all vessel ... Pilot. Actual job requirements may vary based on the specific needs of the organization and ...

Terral River Service Inc

BOAT PILOT

Channelview, TX

... barge * Directs and assists in performance of general maintenance work. * Ensuring all vessel ... Pilot. Actual job requirements may vary based on the specific needs of the organization and ...

TerralRiver Service

BOAT PILOT

Channelview, TX · On-site

... barge * Directs and assists in performance of general maintenance work. * Ensuring all vessel ... Pilot. Actual job requirements may vary based on the specific needs of the organization and ...

TerralRiver Service

... barge * Directs and assists in performance of general maintenance work. * Ensuring all vessel ... Pilot. Actual job requirements may vary based on the specific needs of the organization and ...

Terral River Service Inc

BOAT PILOT

Lettsworth, LA

... barge * Directs and assists in performance of general maintenance work. * Ensuring all vessel ... Pilot. Actual job requirements may vary based on the specific needs of the organization and ...

Terral RiverService

BOAT PILOT

Lettsworth, LA · On-site

... barge * Directs and assists in performance of general maintenance work. * Ensuring all vessel ... Pilot. Actual job requirements may vary based on the specific needs of the organization and ...

TerralRiver Service

BOAT PILOT - FLEET

Blytheville, AR · On-site

... barge * Directs and assists in performance of general maintenance work. * Ensuring all vessel ... Pilot. Actual job requirements may vary based on the specific needs of the organization and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsBarge Pilot Jobs

Barge Pilot information

See salary details

$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do barge pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for barge pilot in the United States is $130,916.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,000.00 and $155,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Barge Pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Barge Pilot, you need strong navigation skills, knowledge of maritime regulations, and typically a U.S. Coast Guard license. Familiarity with radar, GPS systems, VHF radios, and electronic charting tools is essential for safe and efficient vessel operation. Excellent situational awareness, clear communication, and decision-making under pressure are standout soft skills in this role. These skills are critical to ensuring the safe transport of cargo, compliance with regulations, and effective coordination with crew and port authorities.

What are barge pilots?

Barge pilots are licensed professionals responsible for navigating and operating barges, which are flat-bottomed vessels used primarily to transport goods and materials along rivers, canals, and other inland waterways. They ensure the safe and efficient movement of the barge, manage the crew, and monitor weather and water conditions. Barge pilots must follow strict safety regulations and communicate with other vessels and port authorities. Their expertise is essential for preventing accidents and ensuring the timely delivery of cargo.

What is the difference between Barge Pilot vs Tugboat Captain?

AspectBarge PilotTugboat Captain
CertificationsRequired licenses for operating barges, such as Coast Guard licensesSimilar licenses, often including towing and vessel operation certifications
Work EnvironmentOperates on inland and coastal waterways, guiding bargesOperates tugboats, often assisting ships or barges in ports and waterways
Industry UsageCommonly employed in shipping, oil, and construction industriesUsed in shipping, port operations, and offshore industries

Both Barge Pilots and Tugboat Captains require similar licenses and work in maritime environments. Barge Pilots primarily guide large cargo or oil barges, while Tugboat Captains operate tugboats that assist in maneuvering ships and barges. Their roles are complementary but distinct within maritime operations.

What are some common challenges faced by Barge Pilots when navigating busy waterways?

Barge Pilots often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, strong currents, and heavy traffic from other vessels while navigating busy waterways. They must remain vigilant and adapt quickly to changing situations to ensure the safety of the crew, cargo, and vessel. Effective communication with other crew members and coordination with port authorities are crucial for timely and safe passage. Additionally, Barge Pilots need to stay updated on regulations and local navigational hazards, which can vary by region.
More about Barge Pilot jobs
What cities are hiring for Barge Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Barge Pilot job openings:
What states have the most Barge Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Barge Pilot jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Barge Pilot jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Barge Pilot jobs are:
Barge Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Barge Pilot job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.
Experienced Inland Wheelman - Trip Pilot

Experienced Inland Wheelman - Trip Pilot

Kirby Corporation

Channelview, TX

Other

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Overview

** This position is for Wheelman looking to become a part time employee working as a Trip Pilot"

As a Wheelman, you are responsible for managing the vessel, the vessel's personnel and all barges in tow. You will be responsible for all crew members and their adherence to all United States Coast Guard regulations and company policies.  You will be expected to navigate the vessel in a safe manner and ensure safety rules are followed by everyone.  You will be reporting to the Captain of the vessel and the shoreside vessel operations group.  Applicant must hold a Master or Mate of Towing Vessels on Inland Waters and Western Rivers.

Responsibilities

Basic Functions:

1. As a supervisor you will be responsible for training the crew on how to perform their job in a safe manor.

2. Safely Navigate in the Intercoastal canal and Mississippi river system. Radio Communications and Radar experience is required.

3. Supervise the daily maintenance and housekeeping of the vessel.

4. Supervise all barge transfers and fueling operations.

5. Follow all company policies.

6. Ensure vessel is in compliance with all environmental laws and United States Coast Guard regulations.

7. Will act as a company representative on a daily basis with customers at the dock.

8. Ensure engine room maintenance is kept up on a daily basis

9. In the event of an emergency will act as the on site coordinator until vessel operations arrive.

10. Wheelman will be responsible for keeping up with daily logs while on watch.

Qualifications

QUALIFICATIONS, COMPETENCIES AND CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

  • Must have valid TWIC.
  • Must have valid MMC with Inland and Western Rivers endorsement.
  • Must have valid USCG medical certificate
  • Must have valid Radar endorsement.
  • Must have valid Radio/FCC License.
  • Must have a valid Drivers License.
  • Must have a Social Security Card.
  • Must be 18 years of age.
  • Must be a U. S. Citizen or provide eligibility to work in the US.
  • Must be able to work away from home.
  • Must be able to read and write English.
  • Must have reliable transportation.
  • Must be able to pass a drug and alcohol screen.
  • Must not be color blind.
  • Must be able to work outdoors in inclement weather.
  • Must not have more than 2 moving violations in the last 3 years.
  • Must not have a DWI or DUI in the last 3 years.
  • Cannot have any criminal charges pending, or be on probation.

    • PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

    • Walk - Must be able to walk as needed on vessel and barge
    • Step - Must be able to step 2ft vertical and 2ft horizontal
    • Climb - Must be able to climb a 90 degree vertical ladder 25-30 feet
    • Grip - Must be able to grip 50 lbs
    • Push/Hold/Pull - Must be able to push, pull and hold 70lbs
    • Lift - Must be able to lift 50 lbs.
    • Vision - Color vision and eyesight must be sufficient to pass an eye test as required to obtain a merchant mariners credential. 
    • Hearing - Must meet minimum standards, as per USCG requirements
    • Speech - Must be able to verbally communicate in the English language both in delivery and ability to be understood using handheld radios or other devices, as required
    • Smell - Must possess a sense of smell to be able to detect the presence of potentially dangerous vapors
    • Pulmonary Functions - Must pass a pulmonary function test with a minimum score of 75%
    • General - Must be able to enter and exit hatches/doorways quickly in case of emergency.
    • Equipment - Must be able to wear a negative or positive pressure respirator, PVC foul weather gear, personal flotation device, rubber gloves and boots. 
    • Ability to use firefighting / spill containment equipment
    Employment Type: OTHER

    Apply